Round-up of events this June

Not sure about you but we’re still in shock it’s June!! We’ve had some heatwaves over the last couple of weekends and the events calendar for this month is definitely kicking off the summer season. To spread the summer vibes, we have put together a little round-up of June events in the city centre and the suburbs…

Cocktails in the city

Leeds Town Hall sees the return of Cocktails in the City; an event which sees 20 of Leeds’ favourite cocktail bars come together and serve some seriously quirky creations. If that doesn’t do it for you, how about taking part in a series of tasting experiences where you can enjoy a one-off cocktail tailor made just for this event? There will also be street food vendors and live music too. This event will be taking place tonight and tomorrow.

Leeds Food and Drink Festival

Back for its 8th year in a row, Leeds Food and Drink Festival is taking place at Millennium Square where you can tuck into some of the best street food you’ll find, but this year the event has something a little special to add…a traditional British tea room! For those that are loyal food and drink fest goers – you’ll also notice the big new marquee filled with craft beer, ale, gin, cocktails, fizz and that’s right, Pimms. This event is running from today until Sunday 3rd June.

Wicked

One of the biggest West End shows goes on tour and is making a pit stop in Leeds Grand Theatre for a whole month from 13th June – 7th July. To avoid disappoint, book your tickets in advance https://www.leedsgrandtheatre.com

The Gin & Rum Festival

Ever been to a festival dedicated to both gin and rum? Well now you can…The Royal Armouries are hosting the first Gin and Rum Festival today and tomorrow, with a free satchel, gin & rum bible and a copa glass on arrival! Expect to find over 60 different rums and 60 different gins in 7 themed bars spread throughout the venue. Don’t forget to attend the masterclasses they have scheduled and taste some of the street food on offer.

North Leeds Food Festival

Now we know this isn’t in the city centre, but we couldn’t not tell you about this foodie event taking place at Roundhay Park on the 30th June and 1st July. They’ve promised an International Street Food Market…over 30 different cuisines…fine Artisan markets to keep you entertained all day. Yes please!

Bill Bailey

Any comedy fans out there? Bill Bailey is heading to First Direct Arena as part of his ‘Larks in Transit’ tour. It covers 20 years of stories from his life on the road, with a hint of politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Check out the website for more information on tickets – https://www.firstdirectarena.com/

Abstract Expression of the Yorkshire Landscape

Croatian artist Leyla Murr is showcasing her artwork which portrays God’s Own Country in a way you’ve never seen before. Head to Left Bank Leeds from Thursday 7th June to Thursday 26th July and gain a new insight into the way colour and texture help explore the point in which reality and abstraction meet.

Leeds Arts University Show 2018

Take a look at the degree compositions from the next generation of Leeds graduates. There will be the opportunity to purchase prints, cards, stationery and artwork from the students exhibiting inside the Art Market. The show is taking place at both the Blenheim Walk and Vernon Street campuses from 8th – 14th June.

The Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival

You may not be veggie or vegan, but one things for sure, if the name has Yorkshire and festival in it you’re definitely in for a treat! With over 130 stalls, you can tuck into over 15 different types of street food, take part in cookery demonstrations, indulge in pastries from the range of bakeries, grab a drink from the bars, do some yoga and attend talks from activist organisations. Get down to Leeds Town Hall on the 16th and 17th June if this sounds like your kind of festival.

Leeds Print Fair

Saturday 9th June sees Leeds Print Fair take over Holy Trinity Church for all the art lovers to get together and meet artists, buy artwork and peruse the talent that Yorkshire has to offer! Prices start at just £5 for originals and you can find everything from prints to textiles on the day.